Starring in 'The Leftovers' was a gut instinct: Justin Theroux

Los Angeles: Actor Justin Theroux said his decision to join TV drama series 'The Leftovers' was a "gut instinct".

The 43-year-old actor and screenwriter said it wasn't a strategic plan to distance himself from his comedy involvement with films like 'Tropic Thunder' and 'Rock Of Ages', reported Marie Claire.

"The show was just so well written, frankly. I always follow my gut. I learned early on that whenever I've taken someone's advice and not trusted my gut, it's put me in a miserable place," Theroux said.

The show is set three years after 2 per cent of the world's population disappeared with no explanation. It also stars Liv Tyler, Christopher Eccleston and Amy Brenneman. 'Lost' star Damon Lindelof created the series which is based on the Tom Perrotta novel. Theroux plays police chief Kevin Garvey in the HBO series.